Foods That Help with Menopause Naturally — And Foods to Avoid

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Maybe you’re experiencing menopause already and you’re wondering if there are any foods that help with menopause naturally. Or perhaps you’re trying to find out if there are foods to avoid during menopause! 

 

Today, we are happy to help you discover simple, natural lifestyle changes that can help to ease the discomfort of menopause. 

 

We are The Healthy Place, Wisconsin’s number ONE vitamin and nutrition store! Here, we are passionate about helping people learn, grow, and create their best life possible. If you’re new here, welcome! 

 

Also, be sure to check out our YouTube channel to watch this video. While you’re there, you should also check out How to Make Menopause Easier (Natural Menopause Relief). You can view the video transcript here if you prefer to read instead of watch. 

 

Okay — let’s get down to it! There are many natural menopause treatments that work well. But you can also use your diet to help control menopause symptoms! Estrogen-rich foods for menopause will ease some symptoms and support overall health during this transition. 

 

So, start with a few simple updates to your diet and look at the Foods to Avoid During Menopause.

 

Number 1. Sugar! 

It’s best to avoid sugar when you’re going through menopause. That includes processed foods that have a lot of added sugar as well. Sugar can negatively affect your mood which definitely doesn’t help when you’re already experiencing major mood swings sugar. 

 

But there’s more to it than that. Sugar also depresses your immune system, messes with your hormones, affects blood sugar and digestion, and so much more. 

 

Number 2. Carbs

We get it — a huge chunk of bread or bowl of pasta sounds delicious all the time, but especially when you need a little extra comfort food. Unfortunately, during menopause, excess carbs can mess with your mood as well. Instead of processed foods or those foods made with white flour, choose whole grains instead. Good-for-you carbs will help you control weight fluctuations and especially lower abdominal fat.

Number 3. Alcohol

We’d suggest cutting back entirely when it comes to alcohol. For a lot of women, alcohol can make menopausal symptoms worse. It can trigger hot flashes and night sweats and lead to poor sleep. Instead of beer or wine, go for kombucha or fresh fruit juice instead. These beverages are far easier on you — and your body will thank you for it!

Number 4. Caffeine

Okay, before you click away, hear us out! Cutting back your caffeine intake can be very helpful in reducing uncomfortable menopause symptoms such as hot flashes, anxiety, and even headaches. Limit your caffeine intake to a cup or two in the morning and avoid drinking coffee past the early afternoon hours. Caffeine is one of the worst culprits for sleeplessness during menopause. So, if you’re tossing and turning from night sweats and chills, check to see if your caffeine levels need tweaking.

Foods to Eat for Menopause Diets

Okay, now you know to avoid carbs, added sugar, alcohol, and caffeine — but what should you eat and drink as part of your menopause diet? 

 

The answer is simple! Eat estrogen-rich foods for menopause support. These are certain foods that contain phytoestrogen compounds. They help balance hormones by acting like the estrogen that’s already present in your body. 

 

Number 1. Tofu and tempeh 

You can make an organic tofu scramble in the morning instead of eggs or substitute tempeh for chicken in your lunch or dinner. However you decide to add these foods to your diet, know that they contain a whole bunch of phytoestrogens and make excellent additions to your menopause diet.

Number 2. Flax seeds and sesame seeds 

These are both natural phytoestrogens. Flax seed in particular can help with mood swings and other common menopause symptoms.

 

Number 3. Protein

Women sometimes lose bone and muscle mass when going through menopause. And that’s exactly why protein is key! Protein helps your body rebuild those muscles and offers bone supportive nutrients. So, make sure you’re getting plenty of protein in your diet every day. 

Number 4. Water

If you were wondering what to drink to support menopause, we’re willing to bet you guessed this was at the top of the list. And you’re right! Water is essential always, but especially during the transition to menopause. Staying hydrated can help get rid of menopause symptoms such as bloating and nausea. If you’re struggling with night sweats and hot flashes, drinking extra water will make sure you don’t get dehydrated. Water will also help keep your digestive system healthy and aid in detox! 

 

So there you have it — the top foods to avoid and the best foods for menopause symptoms. For more ways to support yourself through menopause, reach out to our team for help. Just click on the LiveChat icon in the bottom right of your screen to get started!